Icelandic Sheepdog vs Vizsla
Herding · Medium vs Sporting · Medium
Icelandic SheepdogMedium
A friendly, hardy, herding Spitz from Iceland — the country's only native breed, brought by Vikings.
Weight: 25–30 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
VizslaMedium
An affectionate, energetic, gentle Hungarian pointer — the original 'velcro dog' that needs constant company.
Weight: 55–60 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Vizsla is the larger breed at 55–60 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
- • The Vizsla has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Vizsla sheds less.
- • The Vizsla is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Icelandic Sheepdog | Vizsla |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Sporting |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | Iceland | Hungary |
Height (male) | 17.5–18" | 22–24" |
Height (female) | 16.5–17" | 21–23" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 55–60 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–30 lbs | 44–55 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a friendly, hardy, herding Spitz from Iceland — the country's only native breed, brought by Vikings. Originally from Iceland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–30 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, hardy, cheerful.
About the Vizsla
The Vizsla is an affectionate, energetic, gentle Hungarian pointer — the original 'velcro dog' that needs constant company. Originally from Hungary, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 55–60 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, energetic, gentle.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
Vizsla health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Epilepsy
- • Hypothyroidism